Ah, Spain – a country with a little something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to party in Barcelona, relax at the beaches of the Costa Brava, marvel at architectural wonders like La Sagrada Família, explore ancient cities such as Madrid and Seville, or take part in cultural festivities such as Semana Santa, there is truly something for everyone in this diverse nation. Before setting off on your journey through Spain, it’s important to have a plan in place so that you can make the most out of your travels. To help you prepare for an unforgettable trip to Spain, here is our comprehensive checklist of where to go and what to bring.
Summer Getaways
Spain is the perfect destination for a summer vacation. Whether it’s the Sahara Desert of Andalusia, the crystal-clear waters of Costa Blanca, or the incredible architecture of Barcelona, there is something for all tastes and budgets.
You can find beautiful Villas near the beach in Spain that you can rent and enjoy the Mediterranean sunshine or opt for a luxurious hotel in the city. The best way to enjoy the summer is by exploring some of the country’s most popular spots.
- Palma de Mallorca: Spend time on the coasts of Mallorca and take a dip in some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. Check out Palma’s historic Old Town and soak up the atmosphere of this Balearic Island.
- Valencia: The City of Arts and Sciences is home to several fascinating architectural wonders such as the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía, L’Hemisfèric, El Museo de las Ciencias Príncipe Felipe, and L’Oceanogràfica. Take part in the La Tomatina festival or visit La Albufera Natural Park for an unforgettable experience
- San Sebastián: This stunning Basque city offers visitors plenty to explore with its stunning beaches, unique architecture, and delicious cuisine. Don’t forget to try the region’s signature dish of Pintxos!
Tourist Destinations
Going to Spain can’t be complete without visiting some of the country’s most popular tourist attractions. Whether it’s to explore 2000 years of history in Toledo, take a selfie in front of La Alhambra in Granada, or cruise through the canals of Valencia, there are plenty of places to make your trip memorable.
- Madrid: The capital city is home to many iconic landmarks such as the Royal Palace and Puerta del Sol, plus dozens of world-renowned museums with extensive collections ranging from fine art to ancient artifacts. Make sure you check out the Prado Museum for an enlightening adventure.
- Seville: This Andalusian gem is full of architectural masterpieces such as Plaza de España and Seville Cathedral as well as colorful markets, flamenco shows, and plenty of tapas bars. And don’t forget the nearby cities of Córdoba and Granada for some cultural immersion.
- Bilbao: Spend a few days in this Basque city to take advantage of its incredible architecture such as the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, Zubizuri Bridge, and Santiago Calatrava’s Puente Bizkaia Bridge. Be sure to try out the local pintxos while you’re here!
Barcelona
No trip to Spain is complete without a visit to Barcelona. This incredible city is a mix of historic architecture, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife. Gaudi’s architectural works are not to be missed, including La Sagrada Família and Park Güell. Explore the Gothic Quarter, shop along Las Ramblas, and take a stroll along the waterfront of Barceloneta Beach.
What to Bring
As with any trip abroad, preparation is key to making sure you have an enjoyable experience in Spain. Here are some essential items that you should consider packing for your trip:
- Comfortable walking shoes – Spain is home to many cobbled streets and hillside towns so make sure you have footwear that can endure long walks without causing discomfort!
- Sun protection – Spain has a generally sunny climate so you’ll want to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
- Lightweight clothing – Temperatures can get very hot in the summer months so bring some breathable fabrics that won’t make you overheat.
- First aid items – Don’t forget basic things like bandages and antiseptic cream just in case you have an accident or get bitten by insects.
- Waterproof jacket – Rain showers are common during certain times of the year, so it’s best to be prepared for any eventuality!
Landing In Spain
When you arrive in Spain, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the local customs and public transportation. Knowing the language is also beneficial as English isn’t widely spoken outside of major cities. To get around easily, purchase a T-10 ticket which can be used on any metro or bus line for up to 10 trips. In most cities, taxis are also an option. Going around some cities like Barcelona can be difficult due to the narrow streets and one-way roads, so use Google Maps or a navigation app for easy navigation. It’s also important to remember that Spain has different public holidays throughout the year. Many businesses are closed on national holidays and some close early during religious festivities. To check what festivals and events will be happening in Spain, take a look at the official government website or a travel guide.
Spanish Cuisine
The food in Spain is incredibly varied and the country boasts a wide variety of delicacies. From traditional tapas to hearty paella dishes, there’s something for everyone in this Mediterranean cuisine. You can find both local and international restaurants all over Spain, so make sure you sample some of the local specialties like Jamón ibérico (cured ham), Queso manchego (sheep’s milk cheese), Tortilla de patatas (potato omelet), Gazpacho (cold tomato soup). There are also plenty of vegetarian options available such as Patatas Bravas (spicy potatoes) and Pisto Manchego (ratatouille-like dish).
Spain is an amazing country with a lot to offer. Its diverse cities, stunning beaches, and delicious cuisine make it the perfect destination for any traveler looking for a memorable experience. From its cosmopolitan cities to its quaint villages, Spain has something for everyone. And if you have time, be sure to check out some of its fascinating architectural sites like Bilbao, Zubizuri Bridge, and Santiago Calatrava’s Puente Bizkaia Bridge.
